NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane reported that before the takeoff he taxied "out a little farther than normal" due to another airplane taxiing in the waterway. He added that as he advanced the throttle, his forward view changed as the airplane came onto step position and he subsequently observed a buoy in the takeoff path. The pilot immediately aborted the takeoff, but the right wing impacted the buoy. The pilot taxied back to the dock without further incident.

The right wing sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The floatplane pilot's failure to avoid a buoy during takeoff.